How to Store Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey So It Stays Delicious

Cooking a Thanksgiving turkey is no small feat. Not only is it the most important entrée of the year (no pressure), but it’s quite likely the only giant piece of poultry you’ll cook all year, making it more labor intensive (all that brining, basting, and butter-rubbing is serious work) than most proteins that go in your oven. Make your turkey work for you by storing your Thanksgiving turkey leftovers properly so you can get the most out of every morsel. Here’s how to store leftover turkey, the right way.

How to Store Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey

Resist the urge to toss the meaty turkey carcass into your fridge, and take a few minutes to store your Thanksgiving turkey correctly to preserve texture and flavor. “The best way to store leftover turkey is in a plastic bag,” suggested Yankel Polak, head chef at ButcherBox. “Not only does this take up the least amount of room in the fridge, but less air in the bag will keep your turkey fresher for longer, as compared to a large food storage container.” According to the USDA, leftover turkey will stay fresh in the fridge for three to four days.

Organize the Meat

If your turkey is already broken down and sliced, split up the bags into white meat and dark meat for easy reheating. If you have larger pieces of turkey, like an unsliced breast, store it intact to keep in the juices until the meat is reheated. Make sure the bags stay tightly sealed. Reusable silicone bags can work as well. 

Get Creative with Leftovers

“People get tired of turkey pretty quickly. A good way to use it is to get really creative with leftover creations,” Polak said. “Find different recipes other than your typical turkey sandwich to keep things interesting and delicious!” And to not let all the hard work you put into making that Thanksgiving turkey go to waste.

Can You Freeze Thanksgiving Turkey?

If you won’t consume your leftover Thanksgiving turkey within a few days, your best bet is to freeze the meat. According to the USDA, cooked turkey stored in the freezer will stay good for three to four months. Better yet, plan ahead to preserve the meat, and don't cut it up too much before freezing.

How to Send Guests Home With Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey

Since guests will likely eat their leftovers promptly, feel free to skip the plastic bag and go for a full meal container, complete with gravy, sides, and whatever else you want to pawn off on loved ones for their day-after lunch. 

“The best way to send guests home with leftover turkey is in extra food storage containers that you feel comfortable with never seeing again!” Polak said. “Food storage containers also allow you to add other leftover sides to create little to-go turkey dinners for your guests.” The gesture will be much appreciated and will free up space in your refrigerator.